Writing Mr. Wrong

This irresistible second-chance sports romance from Armstrong (Finding Mr. Write) stars fiery romance novelist Gemma Stanton, whose debut novel, a highland historical, draws inspiration from her failed teenage romance. Knowing that readers love an "asshole hero," she based her male lead off of Mason Moretti, her high school crush turned nemesis, who kissed her and ditched her and allowed the whole school to think he'd only done it on a dare. A vindictive former classmate, Ashley, now has a popular Vancouver morning TV show and invites Gemma on to promote her book--only to bring out Mason, now an NHL superstar with a reputation for ruthlessness, and reveal their connection. The clip goes viral, boosting both of their careers, and they agree to milk the moment though a series of fake dates. Meanwhile, Mason reads Gemma's book and is forced to reckon with his bad behavior. Armstrong has a talent for creating multifaceted characters, including a smart-mouthed heroine who will earn readers' affection from the start and a hunky hero whose redemption arc is a joy to witness. With a fast-paced plot, a fun meta angle, and a couple readers will root for, this is a delight. Agent: Lucienne Diver, Knight Agency. (June)

Gemma Stanton worked out some lingering high school trauma in her debut romance novel. She may have partially based her unpleasant, gruff main character on former jock classmate turned professional hockey player Mason Moretti, who humiliated her in high school, and the cover of her book might bear a slight resemblance to Mason--if he wore a kilt. Waiting to make an appearance on her local morning show to publicize her book, Gemma plays nice with the host, a former mean girl classmate in high school. But the slight discomfort turns into horror when Gemma realizes the host has also invited Mason on the show. He rises to the challenge by diffusing the situation on live television; later, he suggests a mutually beneficial fake-dating relationship to help his image and her book sales. Gemma cannot turn down the offer, even when the relationship begins to feel real. VERDICT Armstrong (Finding Mr. Write) delivers a hit for fans of second-chance romance, a perfect summer beach read.--Nicole J. Suarez